1

Cafeteria Worker Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Food Service Worker

Garden City, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

ResponsibilitiesPerforms a variety of patient and non patient food service duties such as preparing and delivering patient trays, servicing the cafeteria, working on tray line, stocking storage areas ...

Food Service Worker

Garden City, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Performs a variety of patient and non patient food service duties such as preparing and delivering patient trays, servicing the cafeteria, working on tray line, stocking storage areas, preparing ...

Food Service Worker

Garden City, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Responsibilities Performs a variety of patient and non patient food service duties such as preparing and delivering patient trays, servicing the cafeteria, working on tray line, stocking storage ...

Food Service Worker - GCH

Garden City, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

Responsibilities Performs a variety of patient and non patient food service duties such as preparing and delivering patient trays, servicing the cafeteria, working on tray line, stocking storage ...

Food Service Worker - GCH

Garden City, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

ResponsibilitiesPerforms a variety of patient and non patient food service duties such as preparing and delivering patient trays, servicing the cafeteria, working on tray line, stocking storage areas ...

Food Service Worker- PRN

Grayling, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

... To My Co-workers, and supports RBC unit action plans. * Uses effective customer service ... Sets up and stocks cafeteria using FIFO, monitors quality of food & assure enough food & paper ...

Food Service Worker- PRN

Grayling, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $17.25/hr

... To My Co-workers, and supports RBC unit action plans. * Uses effective customer service ... Sets up and stocks cafeteria using FIFO, monitors quality of food & assure enough food & paper ...

Showing results 21-40

Cafeteria Worker information

See Michigan salary details

$7

$12

$17

How much do cafeteria worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for cafeteria worker in Michigan is $12.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.91 and $13.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cafeteria worker?

Cafeteria workers are employees who prepare, serve, and sometimes cook food in schools, hospitals, businesses, and other institutional dining settings. Their responsibilities often include setting up serving lines, portioning food, cleaning work areas, and ensuring that food safety standards are met. They may also handle cash registers, restock supplies, and assist with inventory. Cafeteria workers play a crucial role in providing nutritious meals to a large number of people efficiently and safely.

What are the duties of a cafeteria worker?

As a cafeteria worker, your primary responsibilities are to prepare and serve meals, typically for large groups of people. When preparing food, you adhere to any and all food preparation safety standards. When serving, you give food to customers as they walk through a line or by selling prepackaged items that can be purchased a la carte. In addition to preparing and serving food, your duties include restocking and maintaining supplies for the kitchen and cafeteria, as well as maintaining and cleaning the kitchen, equipment, and washing dishes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cafeteria worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cafeteria Worker, you need basic food preparation skills, knowledge of food safety practices, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and, in some cases, a food handler’s certification are typically required. Excellent teamwork, reliability, and strong customer service skills help you stand out in this role. These abilities ensure efficient service, safe food handling, and a positive dining experience for customers.

What are some common challenges cafeteria workers face during busy meal periods, and how can they effectively manage them?

During peak meal times, cafeteria workers often encounter challenges such as long lines, high noise levels, and the need to quickly prepare and serve food while maintaining quality and safety standards. Effective time management, clear communication with team members, and staying organized can help manage these pressures. Many cafeterias use well-defined roles and prep routines to streamline service, and teamwork is crucial for keeping service running smoothly. Adapting to fast-paced environments and being proactive in restocking supplies or cleaning work areas can also help reduce stress during busy periods.

What is the difference between Cafeteria Worker vs Food Service Worker?

AspectCafeteria WorkerFood Service Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; food safety certification often required
Work EnvironmentSchool cafeterias, educational institutionsRestaurants, cafeterias, catering services
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational institutionsRestaurants, catering companies, food establishments
Job DutiesServing students, preparing simple meals, cleaningServing customers, preparing food, cleaning, taking orders

While both Cafeteria Workers and Food Service Workers operate in food service environments, Cafeteria Workers primarily serve in school settings focusing on student meals, whereas Food Service Workers work in various food establishments serving the general public. The required credentials and job duties overlap but differ based on the work environment and specific responsibilities.

Do school cafeteria workers get paid in the summer?

School cafeteria workers are typically paid only during the school year when they are actively working. Some districts may offer summer employment or extended programs, but generally, pay is not provided during the summer break unless the worker is involved in summer meal programs or other year-round roles. Pay schedules depend on the school district's policies and employment agreements.

How do you become a school cafeteria worker?

To become a school cafeteria worker, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may be required to pass a background check. Relevant skills include food safety knowledge and the ability to operate kitchen equipment; some positions may require food service certifications. Employment often involves part-time hours and adherence to health and safety regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Worker jobs in Michigan?

For Cafeteria Worker jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cafeteria Worker jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Cafeteria Worker jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Cafeteria Worker jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Cafeteria Worker job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Cafeteria Worker jobs in MI?

For Cafeteria Worker jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cafeteria Worker job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, and 62% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $26,071 per year, or $12.5 per hour.

$18.91/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

POSITION:                      Elementary Cafeteria Manager

LOCATION:                       Hoben Elementary

HOURS:                           40 Hours/Week                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                
 

JOB SUMMARY:
The Elementary Cafeteria Manager supports the efficient and compliant operation of school food service by modeling excellence in daily kitchen operations and assisting with administrative responsibilities. This position serves as the on-site point of contact for kitchen staff during meal service and helps ensure procedures are followed related to food safety, menu compliance, documentation, and inventory. While the Team Lead provides informal leadership and guidance to peers, the position does not include formal supervisory, disciplinary, or evaluative authority.




MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Minimum of two (2) years experience in institutional or school food service.
  • Demonstrated understanding of food safety, sanitation, and USDA nutrition standards.
  • Ability to communicate clearly and respectfully with peers, supervisors, and school staff.
  • Capable of maintaining accurate records and completing required documentation.
  • Good attendance record.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • ServSafe Certification (must to obtain within 90 days).
  • Experience completing production records and inventory tracking in a school kitchen environment.
  • Familiarity with USDA Child Nutrition Programs and Smart Snacks guidelines.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead by example and foster a collaborative team environment.

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:


May include, but not limited to: 

Support kitchen operations and meal service:

  • Organize food preparation, service, and clean-up in alignment with USDA guidelines and department procedures.
  • Coordinate kitchen workflow and task assignments to ensure timely and efficient service.
  • Verify deliveries, monitor inventory usage, and report discrepancies or shortages.
  • Identify and escalate equipment issues, supply needs, or staffing concerns to department leadership.
  • Cooperates with various inspections and consulting agencies:  Wayne County Health Dept. and U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Ensure compliance and accurate recordkeeping:

  • Assist in completing and reviewing documentation such as production records, temperature logs, food waste tracking, and delivery receipts.
  • Monitor food safety and allergen procedures; report deviations or concerns to the designated supervisor promptly.

    Serve as site liaison and department representative:

  • Act as the primary contact for communication with Food & Nutrition Services leadership regarding menus, service needs, and kitchen updates.
  • Foster a collaborative relationship with building administrators by communicating proactively on student needs, school schedules, and cross-functional coordination, while upholding the Food & Nutrition Services Department's operational purview over all kitchen operations, facilities, equipment, and cafeteria staff.
  • Represent and reinforce departmental protocols within the school building, ensuring role clarity and consistent practices.
  • Refer any concerns or requests beyond the Team Lead's scope to the appropriate Food & Nutrition Services chain of command.

    Support training and peer development:

  • Assist with onboarding and orientation for new staff and substitutes by providing guidance on daily procedures, documentation, and food safety practices.
  • Model exemplary customer service, sanitation, and meal presentation to promote a positive and consistent kitchen culture.

    Other:

  • Fast-paced school kitchen environment; may require lifting up to 40 pounds, standing for extended periods, and working near hot equipment.
  • Must be able to work scheduled shifts aligned with school hours and occasional training days.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by the Food Service Coordinator or Assistant Director

This description is intended to describe the essential job functions, the general supplemental functions and the essential requirements for the performance of this job.  It is not an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and requirements of a person so classified.  Other functions may be assigned and management retains the right to add or change the duties at any time.


REPORTS TO:               Food Service Coordinator


RATE OF PAY:              Starting at $18.91 based on PCCA CBA   


START DATE:               August 26, 2026


EVALUATION:             


Performance of this position will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's Policy on Evaluation of Classified Personnel.
 

METHOD OF APPLICATION:

INTERNAL APPLICANTS Apply online using the Internal Applicants section.  You will be required to upload the following documents to your application:

  •  Letter of interest
  • Updated resume
  • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement (attach in resume section). This statement should include your understanding and Knowledge of diversity, equity and inclusion including your past experiences and how you will ensure this is at the center of your work in the role for which you are applying. 

EXTERNAL APPLICANTS Apply online using the External Applicants section.  You will be required to upload the following documents to your application:

  •    Cover Letter - Address letter to Abdul Madyun, Chief Human Resource Officer
  •    Resume
  •    Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement (attach in resume section). This statement should include your understanding and Knowledge of diversity, equity and inclusion including your past experiences and how you will ensure this is at the center of your work in the role for which you are applying. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:


The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand and talk or hear and sometimes walk and sit.   Occasionally the employee will bend or twist at the neck more than the average person. While performing the duties of this job, the employee may occasionally push or lift up to 50 lbs such as boxes of books. The employee is directly responsible for safety, well-being, or work output of other people.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision such as to read handwritten or typed material, and the ability to adjust focus.


WORK ENVIRONMENT:


Plymouth-Canton Community School district is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. Plymouth-Canton Community School district is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age or any other legally protected status. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: 


Upon recommendation for employment, Section 1230g, as amended, of the Revised School Code requires all school employees to be electronically finger printed for the purpose of undergoing a criminal history background check. The fingerprinting is conducted by a third party and is at the expense of the applicant. Cost for fingerprinting is approximately $70.00.

DEADLINE: Open until filled